Cold sore virus turned into cancer killer? early trial underway

NCT ID NCT04336241

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Replimune, Inc. Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase study tests a genetically modified herpes virus (RP2) in 36 adults with advanced solid tumors that have not responded to standard treatments. The virus is designed to infect and destroy cancer cells while also stimulating the immune system. Some participants also receive the immunotherapy drug nivolumab (Opdivo). The main goals are to find the safest dose and to watch for side effects.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: genetically modified herpes simplex virus (RP2) and nivolumab (Opdivo)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new way to treat advanced solid tumors by using a virus to kill cancer cells and boost the immune system.
What could go wrong: This is a very early Phase 1 trial with only 36 people, focused on safety and dosing. It is too soon to know if it works, and side effects from the virus or immune response are possible.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

breast neoplasm cancer digestive system neoplasm lung neoplasm neoplasm Uveal Melanoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Churchill Hospital

Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
Hospital Clinico de Valencia

Valencia, 46010, Spain
Hospital Universitario HM Sanchinarro

Madrid, 10 28050, Spain
Hospital Universitario d'Hebron

Barcelona, 119 08035, Spain
The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust

Bebington, Merseyside, CH63 4JY, United Kingdom
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

London, SW3 6JJ, United Kingdom

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